Finding the right crochet hooks for your projects can be an overwhelming task. However, knowing some basic information about crochet hooks will help you find your perfect fit. Crochet hook sizes Different crochet hook sizes create different appearances in a project. Some countries designate crochet hook sizes differently from the U.S. Some use letters; some use millimeters. Whichever application, the hook sizes are printed on the crochet hook either by letter, millimeter or both. The millemeter number stands for the diameter of the shaft. The shaft is the part the needle between the point and handle. The smaller the number, the smaller the size of the needle. U.S. crochet hooks use letters as well. For example, "B" is a smaller hook size than "Q." The further the letter in the alphabet, the larger the hook size. A good way to remember this is that a smaller hook uses smaller, thinner yarn. A larger hook uses thicker, bulkier yarn. A beginner may want to start with a "G" or "H" size hook and choose worsted weight (medium thickness) yarn. Small hook sizes like O.6 mm thickness are used for fine thread crocheting. Try one of these beginner crochet patterns for your next project. The main uses of each type of crochet hook The crochet hook size you use depends on what materials you need to make your project. If your stitches look too loose, go down a hook size. The weight of your yarn should somewhat correspond to the hook size. A smaller, thinner yarn uses smaller hooks; thicker, bulkier yarns use larger hooks. Hook materials Steel hooks vary in size from 0.6 mm thickness (size 14) to the 3 mm thickness (size 00). They are used for crocheting with very delicate thread. Susan Bates Steelite Crochet Hook Aluminum hooks come in a variety of sizes. They are a popular choice for beginners because the yarn is easy to control. Susan Bates Silvalume Super Lightweight Aluminum Crochet Hook Plastic hooks are affordable and made in all sizes. They are the all-purpose hook. Susan Bates Luxite Plastic Crochet Hook Bamboo crochet hooks are made in every size except the smallest and jumbo, and wood hooks are designed in the regular shape or with a curve to be ergonomic. Tunisian hooks are used with thicker yarn. Tunisian crochet is sometimes called afghan crochet. Susan Bates Silvalume Double-End Afghan Crochet Hook Ergonomic hooks are helpful if you need to put less strain on your hands. The Knook hook is used when you want your stitches to look like knitting. Susan Bates Silvalume Double-End Afghan Crochet Hook How to convert your crochet hook size to a knitting needle A conversion chart can be a lifesaver in converting crochet hook sizes to knitting needles. However, there are some things to keep in mind when looking at the chart. The U.S. uses whole numbers, while most other countries use metric measurements. Read the label on the yarn and measurement on the shaft of the crochet needle to find what numbers to convert. Whether you plan on only crocheting or knitting, yarn packages may be labeled with one measurement you need to convert for your project. Keep this chart handy when you need to convert crochet hook sizes to knitting needles. When you know more about crochet hook sizes, you can use the proper crochet hook to make your project looks like the picture!
